Kinshu Sanso

Kinshu Sanso is a boutique onsen lodge that sits inside the soft echoes of murmuring springs in the valley of Kawaba Village, Gunma Prefecture. Each guest room features a private, semi-open air bath that’s plentiful with replenishing hot spring waters. The waters are sourced from the “Hotaka no Yu” spring, seeing wide acclaim as “skin beautifying waters” for their gentle, skin softening properties. From the baths, guests are treated with a view of a breathtaking garden and the grand mountain range of Mt. Hotaka at its back. The rich landscape offers remarkable views all year round, but the bright reds of the trees in autumn are an extra special treat.

For foodies, there’s authentic, Japanese fare made with sumptuous, local ingredients to enjoy. As carefully designed by the head chef, the traditional “kaiseki” cuisine follows a monthly rotation of the utmost in fresh, seasonal ingredients. In spring, guests can delight in an array of mountain vegetables, light, refreshing fare in summer, a bounty of mushrooms in autumn, and the hearty hot pots of winter. The dishes pair excellently with sake, making for a perfect chance to toast your travels with a feast of rich, fresh flavors.

The inn is affixed with only 10 rooms, creating an intimate atmosphere where each guest is treated with the utmost in private care. This hidden getaway is a perfect escape for adults to enjoy a private time in the lap of luxury.